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Human Resource Management Subjects & Syllabus

Human Resource Management Subjects & Syllabus

Updated on Jan 27, 2026 | 12 min read | 29.47K+ views

Do you know? The global HR professional services market is projected to grow at a 13.4% CAGR from 2025 to 2030.

Quick Overview

Interested in understanding the key subjects and structure of Human Resource Management (HRM) programs? Here is a quick overview of the important HRM subjects and topics:

HRM subjects cover the complete employee lifecycle, including recruitment, training, performance management, compensation, and labor relations.
Core HR topics focus on strategic HR planning, talent management, industrial relations, and legal compliance across BBA and MBA programs.
Electives and specializations include HR analytics, digital HR (e-HRM), AI in recruitment, diversity and inclusion, and leadership development.
The curriculum progresses from foundational HR concepts to advanced strategy, analytics, and practical capstone projects.
Differences between undergraduate and postgraduate HRM programs lie in subject depth, practical exposure, and application.
Career outcomes span talent management, HR analytics, recruitment, employee engagement, and organizational development.

If you enjoy working with people, solving problems, and staying organized, HRM could be a great career choice. In this blog, we’ll break down the HRM subjects and syllabus, along with career opportunities and practical applications.

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Core Subjects in Human Resource Management

The core subjects in HRM focus on building a strong foundation in managing people and processes within organizations. These topics prepare you to handle everything from recruitment to employee development with confidence.

Check out our top programs and upskill with the latest technologies and skills for a brighter HRM career:

We shall further explore the subjects you’ll study and how they can shape your HRM career!

Compensation Management
- Learn how to create fair salary structures and benefits packages.
- Understand how to design bonuses, retirement plans, and insurance.
- Focus on making sure pay aligns with industry standards and employee needs.
HR Management
- Explore how to attract, hire, and onboard new talent.
- Dive into workforce planning and compliance with labor laws.
- Understand policies for employee engagement and workplace ethics.
Performance Management
- Learn how to set goals and measure employee performance.
- Conduct effective performance reviews and offer feedback.
- Design plans to help employees improve and grow in their roles.
Training and Development
- Identify skill gaps in your team and plan training programs.
- Learn how to design and deliver impactful workshops.
- Monitor how well your training sessions improve performance.
Organizational Change and Development
- Manage changes like company restructuring or new systems.
- Build a strong workplace culture during transitions.
- Use tools to measure and improve overall organizational performance.

Elective Subjects in Human Resource Management

Electives in HRM allow you to specialize in areas you’re passionate about. These subjects help you deepen your skills and stand out in specific HR fields.
Diversity and Inclusion

Learn how to build workplaces that welcome people from all backgrounds.
Focus on hiring practices and team activities that encourage inclusivity.
Address unconscious bias and promote equality across the organization.
HR Technology
- Master HR tools like Workday, SAP, and PeopleSoft to automate HR processes.
- Learn HR analytics and see how it can guide smarter decision-making.
- Use technology to manage payroll, attendance, and performance tracking.
Leadership Development
- Help identify and train future leaders in your company.
- Learn how to coach employees to take on strategic roles.
- Design programs that build leadership and decision-making skills.
Recruitment Analytics
- Use data to find the right candidates quickly and effectively.
- Learn how predictive tools can improve hiring decisions.
- Understand metrics like cost per hire and time to fill a role.
Employee Relations
- Learn how to handle workplace conflicts and resolve employee issues.
- Build trust between employees and management through clear communication.
- Focus on strategies that improve satisfaction and reduce turnover.

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Overview of Human Resource Management Syllabus

HRM courses teach you how to handle workplace challenges and build strong teams. The Human Resource Management syllabus is divided into semesters, starting with the basics and progressing to advanced HR topics. Here’s how the program is structured.

Semester 1: Basics of HR

The first semester focuses on understanding organizations and building communication skills.

Subject	What You’ll Learn	Activities
Principles of Management	Learn how organizations are structured and managed	Study real-world examples of company structures
Business Communication	Develop skills for writing emails and giving presentations	Practice presentations and group discussions
Introduction to HRM	Understand the key roles of HR, like hiring and payroll	Simulate basic HR processes
Organizational Behavior	Learn how people behave in teams and workplaces	Role-play scenarios for team building
Fundamentals of Labor Laws	Understand workplace rules and employee rights	Analyze cases on labor law compliance

Semester 2: Practical HR Skills

This semester helps you gain hands-on experience in key HR tasks like recruitment and training.

Subject	What You’ll Learn	Activities
Recruitment and Selection	Learn how to post jobs, conduct interviews, and onboard employees	Conduct mock interviews
Training and Development	Create training programs to improve employee skills	Design and deliver a training plan
Performance Management	Understand how to evaluate and improve employee performance	Simulate performance reviews
HR Technology	Explore tools used for managing employee data and tasks	Practice with tools like SAP or Oracle

Semester 3: Advanced HR Topics

You’ll focus on leadership and strategic HR planning by the third semester.

Subject	What You’ll Learn	Activities
Strategic HRM	Plan for long-term workforce needs and talent retention	Work on strategic HR planning projects
Compensation and Benefits	Learn to create fair salary and benefit structures	Design realistic compensation models
Employee Relations	Manage workplace conflicts and improve employee engagement	Draft engagement surveys and action plans
International HRM	Handle HR challenges in global organizations	Analyze case studies on cross-cultural HR policies

Semester 4: Specialization and Practice

The final semester focuses on preparing you for real-world HR roles through projects and internships.

Subject	What You’ll Learn	Activities
HR Analytics	Use data to make better HR decisions	Create reports using tools like Tableau
Organizational Development	Plan and manage organizational changes	Simulate change management scenarios
Internship/Capstone Project	Apply all your learning in a real-world setting	Gain hands-on experience in HR roles
Dissertation/Research Work	Research a specialized HR topic	Write and present your findings

HRM Subjects for Undergraduate Programs

A bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management focuses on basic concepts, helping students understand how organizations manage and develop people. It’s ideal for anyone starting their journey in HR.

Subject	Key Topics Covered	Purpose
Business Communication	Writing reports, professional emails, and presentation skills	Helps students learn effective communication in the workplace.
Fundamentals of HRM	HR functions like recruitment, training, payroll	Introduces basic HR principles and practices.
Team Building and Leadership	Leadership styles, team dynamics, conflict resolution	Develops skills to lead teams and enhance collaboration.
Organizational Behavior	Workplace culture, employee motivation, conflict management	Teaches how individuals behave in teams and organizations.
Labor Laws and Industrial Relations	Employee rights, workplace compliance, union-management relations	Equips students with legal knowledge and compliance essentials.
Recruitment and Selection	Job posting, candidate assessment, onboarding	Focuses on hiring strategies and evaluation techniques.
Performance Management	Employee evaluation methods, goal setting, feedback systems	Teaches methods to assess and improve employee performance.

HRM Subjects for Postgraduate Programs

A master’s degree in HRM dives deeper into advanced topics. It prepares students for strategic roles and equips them to handle complex organizational challenges.

Subject	Key Topics Covered	Purpose
Strategic HRM (SHRM)	Workforce planning, talent retention, succession planning	Teaches how HR aligns with long-term business goals.
HR Analytics	Data-driven decision-making, tools like Tableau, Power BI	Helps students analyze HR metrics to improve decision-making.
Organizational Development	Change management, restructuring, employee engagement	Focuses on enhancing organizational efficiency and effectiveness.
Compensation and Benefits	Salary structures, benefits, employee retention strategies	Equips students to design competitive compensation packages.
Employee Engagement	Well-being initiatives, productivity improvement	Prepares students to foster positive workplace culture.
Training and Development	Upskilling techniques, program design, measuring outcomes	Focuses on employee skill enhancement and training effectiveness.
International HRM	Cross-cultural management, expatriate policies, global labor laws	Prepares students for HR roles in multinational organizations.
Internships and Dissertation Projects	Practical exposure through internships, research in specialized HR areas	Provides hands-on learning and an opportunity to explore specific interests.

Eligibility Criteria (UG & PG) for Human Resource Management in India

If you’re planning to study HRM in India, here’s what you need to know about the eligibility requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Undergraduate (UG) HRM Programs

A bachelor’s degree in HRM introduces you to the basics of managing people, organizations, and resources.

Educational Qualification:
- Completion of 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board.
- Open to students from all streams (Arts, Commerce, Science).
Minimum Marks:
- Most institutions require at least 50% aggregate marks in 12th grade.
- Relaxation in marks may apply for reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC).
Entrance Tests:
- Direct admission based on 12th marks is common.
- Some universities may conduct entrance exams, e.g., DUET (Delhi University).

Postgraduate (PG) HRM Programs

A postgraduate program in HRM, like an MBA or PGDM, is designed to prepare you for leadership roles in HR.

Educational Qualification:
- A recognized bachelor's degree in any discipline.
- Minimum 50% aggregate marks in graduation (varies by institution).
Entrance Exams:
- National tests like CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, or GMAT.
- Institute-specific exams (e.g., TISSNET for TISS, XAT for XLRI).
Work Experience (Preferred):
- Executive programs may require 2–3 years of professional experience.
- Freshers are eligible for full-time MBA programs.
Additional Rounds:
- Some institutes conduct group discussions, written ability tests (WAT), or personal interviews.

Key Skills for HRM Programs

While meeting the academic criteria is essential, having these skills can make your journey smoother:

Communication Skills: Essential for managing people and building relationships.
Analytical Thinking: Needed for problem-solving and decision-making.
Organizational Abilities: Crucial for managing recruitment, payroll, and compliance.
Interpersonal Skills: Helps in resolving conflicts and fostering a positive work environment.

How upGrad Can Help You Succeed in HRM

upGrad, India’s leading online education platform, offers comprehensive support to help you achieve your career goals in HRM. Whether you're a fresher or a working professional, here’s how upGrad stands out:

Why Choose upGrad?

Placement Support:

Access over 5,000 job openings every month through upGrad’s career portal.
Prepare for interviews with mock sessions, mentorship, and resume-building tools.
Get personalized career counseling to make informed career decisions.

Learning Support:

Industry mentors and teaching assistants provide one-on-one guidance.
Weekly live doubt-clearing sessions ensure you stay on track.
Detailed feedback on assignments to improve your skills.

Track Record That Speaks for Itself:

50% average salary hike for HRM graduates.
400% maximum salary hike recorded.
₹73 LPA highest salary offered to learners.

Key Features of upGrad Programs:

100% Online Programs.
Live Interactive Sessions with Industry Experts.
Comprehensive Career Assistance.
Weekly Doubt-Clearing Sessions.

Featured HRM Programs on upGrad

HR Analytics Course (6 months)
- Learn from IIM Kozhikode faculty.
- Master HR practices, workforce planning, and talent sourcing analytics.
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree + 2 years of work experience.
Global MBA (18 months)
- Covers organizational behavior, workforce planning, business law, and ethics.
- Dual credentials: MBA from Liverpool Business School & PGP in Management from IMT Ghaziabad.

Explore these programs today to start or advance your HRM career. Book a free 1:1 session with us and get expert assistance!

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Reference Links:
https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/hr-professional-services-global-market-report
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/hr-generalist-salary-SRCH_KO0,13.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/recruitment-specialist-salary-SRCH_KO0,22.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/training-and-development-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,32.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/human-resources-consultant-salary-SRCH_KO0,26.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/compensation-and-benefits-specialist-salary-SRCH_KO0,36.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/hr-analyst-salary-SRCH_KO0,10.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/talent-acquisition-specialist-salary-SRCH_KO0,29.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/employee-relations-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,26.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/organizational-development-specialist-salary-SRCH_KO0,37.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/payroll-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,15.htm

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What qualifications do I need to enroll in an HRM course?

You typically need a bachelor’s degree in any field with a minimum of 50% marks. Some institutions may also require passing national entrance exams like CAT, MAT, or XAT.

2. Is there math in HRM?

Yes, there is some math in HRM. Mathematics is applied in HRM through budget analysis, turnover metrics, and headcount forecasting. There is also a routine use of statistical tools and formulas to interpret HR data and support strategic decisions.

3. Do HRM courses focus on digital tools like HR software?

Yes, modern HRM courses include training on tools like SAP, Workday, and BambooHR to manage HR functions effectively.

4. What are the subjects for HRM first year?

In the first year of HR programs, students usually study basics like Principles of Management, Human Resource Management, Organizational Behavior, and Business Communication. They also learn the fundamentals of economics and accounting. These subjects help build a strong understanding of how organizations and people work together.

5. Are HR certifications recognized internationally?

Many HR certifications, such as SHRM, HRCI, and CIPD, are globally recognized and enhance your career prospects worldwide.

6. Can HRM be studied as a part-time or weekend course?

Yes, several institutions offer flexible learning options, including part-time, weekend, and online HRM courses for working professionals.

7. Is HRM and MBA different?

An MBA is a comprehensive business degree covering finance, marketing, and operations, whereas HRM focuses specifically on human capital strategies. You may pursue an MBA with an HR concentration, but the two qualifications serve distinct purposes.

8. What is the difference between HRM and HRD (Human Resource Development)?

HRM encompasses overall employee management, while HRD focuses specifically on employee growth, training, and skill development.

9. Are there specific certifications for HR Analytics or Payroll Management?

Yes, certifications like HR Analytics by upGrad and Payroll Certification by AAPA are available for specialized HR roles.

10. What are the 5 main HR subjects?

The five main HR subjects are Human Resource Management, Recruitment and Selection, Training and Development, Performance Management, and Compensation and Benefits. These areas focus on managing employees from hiring to growth and rewards. Together, they form the core of most HR programs.

11. What is the average salary after completing an HRM course?

Entry-level HR professionals in India can expect salaries between ₹3–5 LPA, while experienced managers can earn ₹8–15 LPA or more. In the US, HR managers earn an average of USD 70,000 – USD 120,000 annually, depending on experience and location.

12. What are the 7 main areas of HR?

The seven main areas of HR include recruitment and selection, training and development, performance management, compensation and benefits, employee relations, labor law and compliance, and HR planning. Each area supports both employees and organizational goals. They help create a productive and compliant workplace.

13. Can I study HRM after 12th grade?

Yes, you can start with a BBA in HRM or similar undergraduate program after 12th grade in any stream, and then progress to a master’s in HRM or MBA in HR.

14. Is HRM a good career option?

Yes, HRM is a good career for people who enjoy working with people and business processes. It offers stable job opportunities across industries. With experience, professionals can grow into leadership roles and strategic positions.

15. What are the 5 types of HR roles?

The five types of HR roles include Recruitment HR, Training and Development HR, Compensation and Benefits HR, Employee Relations HR, and HR Analytics HR. Each type focuses on a specific function within HR. Together, they support effective workforce management.

16. Can HRM professionals work remotely?

Yes, many HR functions like payroll, policy design, and virtual recruitment can be done remotely, especially with HR software and video interview tools.

17. How long does it take to complete an HRM degree?

A bachelor’s degree usually takes 3 years, while a master’s degree or MBA in HR takes 1–2 years.

18. Do HRM jobs require strong communication skills?

Yes, excellent communication is essential for HR professionals to conduct interviews, resolve conflicts, and present policies effectively.

19. What are the career growth opportunities in HRM?

You can start as an HR Executive and grow to roles like HR Manager, HR Director, Chief Human Resource Officer (CHRO), or HR Consultant.

20. Is HRM suitable for introverts?

Yes, introverts can succeed in HR by focusing on roles like HR Analytics, policy development, or payroll management, which require less direct public interaction but still play a vital role in HR.

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